Can't-have Toys

14 January – 7 May 2012

Action Man SAS, Palitoy, England and Hong Kong 1978 and 1980 Museum no. B.1136:1 to 20-1993 (click image for larger version)

Can’t-have Toys looks at some of the complicated issues surrounding some playthings, including those that have raised concerns in society historically and those that court controversy today.

The display features toy guns, weapons, other war-related material and video games as well as some of the toys and games that stereotype people of different races and from different backgrounds, including gollies and the traditional throwing game Aunt Sally.

Toys banned in school playgrounds are also explored, from the physically dangerous Clackers and games of conkers to distracting and competitive collecting crazes such as Pokemon.